“This is her first foreign visit, and it is very valuable that it is in Ukraine. A genuine sign of support,” the head of the Ukrainian state wrote.
According to Zelensky, they and Ruginen “spoke about everything that is now critical of” – further defense assistance to Ukraine, joint production of weapons and investments in the Ukrainian defense industry.
“Separately – about energy. Winter and Russia are only increasing air terror, blows against our cities. Therefore, the strengthening of our air defense is a priority issue,” the president emphasized.
In addition, Zelensky and Ruginen discussed the participation of Lithuania in the restoration of Ukraine and assistance in the construction of shelters in schools and kindergartens.
“Lithuania’s readiness to make a contribution to the Purl initiative and join the SAFE program is important. We value this. And we are grateful for the integrated support of Ukraine by Lithuania. Military assistance, solidation in the coalition for cleansing, active participation in the coalitions of drones, air defense, electronic warfare, artillery and IT – all this significantly strengthens our people in defense,” the Ukrainian president said.
Ukraine today is not only on the advanced protection of freedom, but also innovations in the military industry, Ruginen said, which is quoted by the Lithuanian government.
Therefore, Lithuania and all of Europe have something to learn from Ukraine, added Ruginen.
It is reported that during a visit to Kyiv, the Lithuanian prime minister met with Zelensky, the head of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk, and together with the Minister of Defense of Ukraine Denis Shmygal congratulated the participants in the forum of defense industries.
“Ukraine showed how, despite the war, it is possible to reduce the path of defense innovations – from the idea to the product that proved its value on the battlefield. We see the great importance of drones and means of countering drones, as well as the high level of Ukraine’s capabilities in this area. By combining these opportunities, resources and experience, we will strengthen our indivisible security – both Ukraine and all of Europe,” Ruginen said.
During her meetings in Kyiv, the current needs of support for Ukraine and its European integration progress were also discussed.
Context
Ruginen, chosen in the Sejm elections in 2024, worked in the government of the retired Gintautas of Palutskas, acting as the head of the Ministry of Socialist Revolutionary.
On August 26, 2025, Ruginen's candidacy for the post of Prime Minister approved the Seim of Lithuania. On the same day, the decree on the appointment of Ruginen was signed by the President of the country of Gitanas Nauceda, Prime Minister of the Lithuanian Republic.
